But Less Clucky and More Heartbroken, Jesus compares himself to a hen wanting to protect her chicks. It’s touching, poetic, and somehow still less weird than most political speeches today.
Section 1. Welcome and Announcements
Welcome, Church Family!
Good morning, friends! It’s such a joy to gather together as the family of God. Whether you’re joining us in person or online, know that you are loved, valued, and welcomed here. Today, we’ll be diving into a powerful passage from Luke 13:31-35, where Jesus expresses His deep love and concern for His people. It’s a message of grace, urgency, and God’s unshakable love for us—so I encourage you to open your hearts to what God wants to say today!
Church Announcements
-
Midweek Bible Study – Wednesday at 7 PM
Join us for an enriching time in the Word as we grow deeper in our faith together. -
Community Outreach – Saturday at 10 AM
We’ll be serving meals to families in need. Sign up at the welcome desk or online. -
Baptism Sunday – March 24th
If you’re ready to take the next step in your faith, sign up to be baptized! -
Small Groups Are Open!
Don’t do life alone—get connected in a small group and grow together in Christ.
Let’s keep loving, serving, and growing together as the body of Christ!
Section 2. Call to Worship
Let’s Prepare Our Hearts for Worship
As we enter into worship today, let’s set aside our worries and distractions. God is here, and He invites us to draw near to Him.
Scripture Reading: Psalm 95:6-7 (NIV)
“Come, let us bow down in worship, let us kneel before the Lord our Maker; for He is our God and we are the people of His pasture, the flock under His care.”
Let’s respond to His invitation with joyful hearts!
Section 3. Opening Prayer
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for bringing us together today. We come before You with open hearts, ready to receive what You have for us. We lay down our burdens and distractions, and we choose to focus on You. Fill this place with Your presence, and may our worship be pleasing to You. Teach us through Your Word, shape us through Your Spirit, and remind us of Your deep love for us.
In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Section 4. Praise and Worship
Lifting Our Hearts in Worship
Now, let’s join together in praise! Worship is more than just singing—it’s about lifting our hearts to God, declaring His goodness, and surrendering our lives to Him. Whether you raise your hands, sing out loud, or worship quietly in your heart, let’s glorify Him together!
Song Suggestions:
- “How Great Is Our God”
- “Goodness of God”
- “Here I Am to Worship”
Let’s worship our Savior with all that we have!
Section 5. Scripture Reading
Introduction to Today’s Passage
Today’s scripture comes from Luke 13:31-35, where Jesus expresses His deep sorrow for Jerusalem, knowing that many have rejected Him. Yet, His heart remains full of love, compassion, and a longing to gather His people under His care.
The Events in the Passage
In this passage, the Pharisees warn Jesus that Herod wants to kill Him. But Jesus responds with boldness, stating that He will continue His mission despite the threats. He then mourns over Jerusalem, lamenting that the city has repeatedly turned away from God’s messengers. His words remind us that God longs for His people to come to Him, but He will not force His love upon us.
Luke 13:31-35 (NIV)
Jesus’ Sorrow for Jerusalem
31 At that time some Pharisees came to Jesus and said to him, “Leave this place and go somewhere else. Herod wants to kill you.”
32 He replied, “Go tell that fox, ‘I will keep on driving out demons and healing people today and tomorrow, and on the third day I will reach my goal.’ 33 In any case, I must press on today and tomorrow and the next day—for surely no prophet can die outside Jerusalem!
34 “Jerusalem, Jerusalem, you who kill the prophets and stone those sent to you, how often I have longed to gather your children together, as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, and you were not willing.
35 Look, your house is left to you desolate. I tell you, you will not see me again until you say, ‘Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.’
Section 6. Pastoral Prayer or Intercessory Prayer
A Prayer for God’s Grace
Father,
We come before You today, recognizing Your deep love for us. Just as Jesus longed to gather the people of Jerusalem under His care, we know that You long for us to walk closely with You. Forgive us for the times we have resisted Your guidance. Help us to surrender our hearts fully to You. We pray for those who are lost, that they may come to know Your love. We lift up our world, asking for healing, peace, and salvation.
In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Congregational Prayer Response
Luke 13:35 (NIV) – “Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.”
Section 7. Offering
Giving as an Act of Worship
Giving is an act of trust and obedience. When we give, we acknowledge that everything we have comes from God. It’s not about the amount—it’s about the heart behind it. Let’s give joyfully, knowing that we are partnering with God’s work!
Prayer for the Offering
Lord,
Thank You for the blessings You have given us. We give back to You as an act of worship, trusting that You will use these gifts for Your glory. Bless those who give and those who long to give. May these offerings be used to advance Your kingdom and spread the message of Your love.
In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Section 8. Special Music
Bringing This Sermon to Life
Before we move into today’s sermon, let’s take a moment to reflect through this special song. Worship through music touches the heart in a unique way, reminding us of God’s love and faithfulness.
Special Music: “Come to Jesus”
Gain Access to the Complete Sermon
If you’d like to dive deeper into this message, you can access the full teaching and resources here:
Short Powerful Sermon on Luke 13:31-35
Sermon Title: “The Heart of Jesus: A Love That Won’t Give Up”
Expository Sermon Outline on Luke 13:31-35
1. Opposition Will Come, But Stay on Mission (Luke 13:31-32)
The Pharisees warn Jesus that Herod wants to kill Him, but Jesus refuses to be intimidated. He remains focused on His mission of healing, preaching, and ultimately going to the cross. True discipleship means pressing forward, even when opposition arises.
2. God’s Timing is Greater Than Man’s Plans (Luke 13:33)
Jesus boldly declares that His journey will continue, because God’s timing—not Herod’s threats—determines His path. As disciples, we must trust that God is in control, even when the future seems uncertain.
3. A Love That Longs for Us (Luke 13:34)
Jesus mourns over Jerusalem, expressing His deep desire to gather His people like a mother hen gathers her chicks. His love is patient, persistent, and unshakable, even when people reject Him.
4. Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late (Luke 13:35)
Jesus warns that a time will come when Jerusalem will recognize Him—but it will be too late. Today is the day to respond to His love and follow Him wholeheartedly.
